ADC Candidate Najeem Salaam Congratulates Adeleke, Says People’s Choice Must Prevail

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in the Osun State election, Hon. Najeem Salaam, has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke on his re-election, saying the outcome of the poll reflects the will of the people and must be respected by all political actors.

In a congratulatory message personally signed and made available to journalists, Salaam emphasised that the fundamental purpose of democratic elections is to allow citizens to freely choose their leaders. “At the end of the day, the choice of the people must prevail. In any democratic process, there will always be choices, contestation and differing views, but what matters most is that the people are given the opportunity to decide. Today, they have exercised that right, and their decision deserves our respect and support,” he stated.

Salaam, a former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, noted that the election had demonstrated that in every democratic contest, there will always be a winner. “The outcome of this election is a reminder that, in every contest, there will always be a winner. Today, the people have spoken, and their choice must be respected,” he said.

Drawing on the cultural ethos of an Omoluabi, Salaam maintained that political competition should not breed division or violence. “As Omoluabi, we must understand that politics is not a do-or-die affair. Political differences should never become reasons to threaten our peace, unity or brotherhood,” he remarked.

Salaam urged Governor Adeleke to use his renewed mandate as an opportunity for introspection, correction and consolidation. “Your Excellency, as you commence another term in office, I urge you to use this mandate as an opportunity to reflect on the areas where your administration may have fallen short, improve upon them and consolidate on the gains already recorded. Governance is a continuous process, and every administration has areas that require reflection, correction and improvement,” he advised.

The ADC candidate called on the governor to administer the state without discrimination, regardless of political affiliation or previous differences. “Osun belongs to all of us. Beyond party lines and political differences, our collective responsibility is to build a state where every citizen can live with dignity, security and hope for a better future,” Salaam said.

He concluded by wishing Governor Adeleke a successful second term, expressing optimism that it would bring greater development, peace and prosperity to the people of Osun State.